Workshops
Lesson Plans

WS103 Collecting Watches for the Beginner Lesson Plan

Introduction

• Introduction of the instructor
• Overview of the workshop content

Reference material

• Books on the history of watches

• General books
• Books by subject or brand

• Books on collecting
• Price guides

• Strength and weakness
• What’s available?

• History of watches

• Early watches
• The verge fusee watch
• The lever escapement
• The modern pocket watch
• The wristwatch

Defining a collection

• What should I collect?
• Cost vs. resources
• Interest vs. availability
• Quantity vs. quality

The hunt

• Where to look for watches

• Online
• Antique shops and malls
• Auctions
• Flea markets and marts
• Word of mouth

• Advertising for watches

• Local papers
• Online
• NAWCC publications

• Evaluation of a watch

• Look at what you’re buying

• Are there visible flaws?
• Does it “look right”?

• What makes this watch desirable?

• Design
• Quality
• Brand name
• Oddity
• Personal taste

• Is the watch “right”?

• Do all the components belong together?
• Have there been extensive repairs?
• Do the dial, hands, and case belong with the movement?

• What is the watch's value?

• Is the case precious metal?
• Is the watch made by a desirable maker?
• Are there any special features or complications?

Displaying your collection

Maintaining the collection

• Cleaning
• Oiling
• Winding

Security

• How to secure your collection
• Insurance: pros and cons